NUJ tribute to 'quintessential public service broadcaster' Brian Farrell

NUJ tribute to 'quintessential public service broadcaster' Brian Farrell

10 November 2014

The NUJ has extended sympathy to the family of veteran Irish broadcaster and political commentator Brian Farrell, who has died.

Brian Farrell (85) presented some of the leading current affairs programmes on RTÉ over 40 years. He was also a life member of the NUJ.

Séamus Dooley, NUJ Irish secretary said:

"Brian Farrell was the quintessential public service broadcaster. He was one of the finest interviewers of his generation, asking the questions the viewer wanted asked - always dogged, always determined but always courteous.

"Colleagues remember Brian for his generosity of spirit, his willingness to share information, ideas and wisdom and of course his sparking sense of humour. Brian believed in public service and brought to several posts, including the Commission on the Newspaper Industry, the Arts Council and the National Archives Advisory Council, common sense, academic rigour and a unique understanding of Irish society.

"His death, coming so soon after the death of another current affairs veteran John O’Donoghue, is a reminder of the legacy of which RTÉ is justifiably proud. We extend sympathy to his family and to his many friends within the media industry."

Martin Fitzpatrick, chair of Dublin newspaper branch, recalled Brian Farrell’s early association with print journalism, first as a columnist in the Irish Press during the early sixties. Martin said Brian "was always diligent in his research and always deeply courteous in his dealings with staff. He was respectful of diverse opinions. He was part of a team who set a high standard and it is difficult to imagine RTÉ in that period without him."